Types of data for a study's endpoint are explained—nominal, ordinal, or continuous—and how each determines the appropriate statistical test in clinical research.

In this lecture on This Is Why, Dr. Busti walks through one of the most critical steps in biostatistics: correctly identifying the type of data based on the study question.

This is where many learners make mistakes—especially when distinguishing between ordinal vs continuous data, recognizing skewed data, or understanding when to use parametric vs non-parametric analysis.

This lecture connects directly to prior topics on study groups and variability, bringing you closer to confidently choosing the correct statistical test.

Topics Covered:

- Nominal, ordinal, and continuous data explained

- How the study question determines data type

- Parametric vs non-parametric data concepts

- Normal distribution vs skewed data

- Relationship between mean, median, and mode

- When continuous data should not be treated as parametric

- Impact of outliers on data interpretation

- Interpreting data for correct statistical test selection

- How endpoints can change data classification (e.g., yes/no vs average)

The goal = make medical education easy and clinically relevant.

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Speaker: 

Anthony Busti, MD, PharmD, MSc, FAHA, FNLA, is a licensed healthcare professional and medical educator with over 30 years of experience in clinical practice and academic teaching. He has trained and practiced as a nurse, pharmacist, and physician, bringing a uniquely comprehensive perspective to patient care and medical education. 

Dr. Busti is dedicated to advancing evidence-based medicine and helping clinicians understand the underlying “why” behind clinical decisions to improve patient outcomes. 

About This Channel: 

This content is created by Anthony Busti, MD, PharmD, MSc, FAHA, FNLA, a board-certified physician with training at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and University of Oxford and a medical educator for healthcare professionals and students. All material is based on current medical literature and evidence-based guidelines that align with principles of evidence-based medicine (EBM) and Evidence-Based Healthcare (EBHC). 

Disclaimer: 

This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace individualized evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with questions about a medical condition and never delay care because of educational content.